Photo: Shozna’s flawless service, world-class dishes, and rich legacy have made it a cornerstone of Kent’s dining scene.
Shozna Marks Historic Win With Prestigious Award
Shozna, led by Chef Jay Ahmed, wins Authentic Restaurant of the Year at the 2025 Asian Curry Awards, cementing its reputation for offering exceptional, authentic cuisine over almost three decades.
The 2025 Asian Curry Awards, often referred to as the “Curry Oscars,” proved to be a memorable night for Shozna in Rochester, as the restaurant secured the prestigious title of Authentic Restaurant of the Year for the South East of England. The awards ceremony, held on 17th November 2025 at the Grosvenor House in Mayfair, London, was attended by over 1,200 esteemed guests from the culinary world, including chefs, restaurateurs, and industry leaders.
At the heart of Shozna’s remarkable victory is its executive chef, Jay Ahmed, whose culinary talent and leadership have been integral to the restaurant’s enduring success. The accolade adds to Shozna’s impressive legacy, as the restaurant and its founder, Jay Ahmed, have already amassed an array of prestigious awards over the last three decades. Shozna has become a shining beacon of authentic cuisine and culinary excellence in Kent.
As the restaurant prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary in April next year, its reputation for serving authentic dishes of the highest quality while delighting a loyal customer base is firmly reinforced by this newest recognition. Over the years, Shozna has built an enviable reputation for consistently delivering impeccable food and service, earning it widespread acclaim and a devoted following.
In another triumph for Kent, Humayra in Sittingbourne also earned a spot in the limelight, with its manager, Rose Ahmed, securing the title of Takeaway of the Year for the South East. The double success highlights the county’s growing prominence in the highly competitive sphere of Asian cuisine in the UK.
Both restaurants’ victories underline the passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of quality that have made them stand out in the industry. Shozna’s contribution to the culinary landscape, particularly as it moves towards its significant 30-year milestone, is a testament to its commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences.
With Shozna and Humayra showing the heights local businesses can achieve, Kent continues to cement its place as a hub for award-winning and authentic Asian cuisine.
